The documents you need depend on which state you're in and what you're using to prove your identity

Every state's DMV accepts a core set of documents for Real ID, but each state adds its own requirements on top. You will need to prove your identity, your Social Security number, your current address, and your lawful status in the United States. The specific documents that satisfy each of these categories vary by state — some accept a passport card, others do not; some take a utility bill for address, others require a lease or mortgage statement.

Before you go to the DMV, check your state's DMV website and look for the Real ID document list. That list is the only one that matters for your state. Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original and a certified English translation.

Key Takeaways

  • Every state requires proof of identity, Social Security number, current address, and lawful status, but which documents satisfy each category differs by state.
  • Your state's DMV website publishes the exact list of acceptable documents — bring originals or certified copies, never photocopies.
  • A passport or passport card counts as proof of identity and lawful status at once, so bringing one can reduce the number of documents you need.
  • If you do not have a document your state lists, contact your DMV before your appointment to ask what alternatives they accept.
  • Certified copies cost money and take time to obtain, so order them as soon as you know you need them.

Proof of identity: what states most commonly accept

A U.S. passport or passport card is the strongest proof of identity because it also proves lawful status, so you may not need additional documents if you bring one. A driver's license or state ID from another state works in most places. A military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card (green card) also counts in most states.

Some states accept a certified birth certificate as proof of identity if you bring it with a photo ID from a government source — even an expired one. Others do not. A few states accept a school ID or employee ID with a photo, but this varies widely. Check your state's list before you assume any document will work.

Proof of Social Security number: documents that work

A Social Security card is the most straightforward proof, but you do not have to bring it. A W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax document with your name and SSN printed on it works in most states. A pay stub with your full SSN also counts. Some states accept a bank statement or insurance policy that shows your SSN.

If you have lost your Social Security card and do not have a tax document or pay stub, you can request a replacement card from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment. That takes one to two weeks. Alternatively, contact your DMV to ask whether they accept other documents — some states will take a letter from your employer or a utility bill in your name if you explain why you cannot produce the standard documents.

Proof of current address: what documents may have access to

A utility bill in your name — electric, gas, water, internet, or phone — is accepted in almost every state. The bill must be recent, usually from the last 60 days. A lease or mortgage statement also works in most places. A property tax bill or homeowner's insurance policy counts in many states.

If you have recently moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your new name, ask your utility company for a letter confirming your address. Some states accept that. A bank or credit card statement with your current address works in some states but not others. A government document like a voter registration card or tax return also works in many places. Again, check your state's specific list — address proof is one area where state rules differ most.

Proof of lawful status: citizenship and immigration documents

A U.S. passport, passport card, or birth certificate proves citizenship. A permanent resident card (green card) proves lawful status for non-citizens. A valid visa, employment authorization document (EAD), or I-94 arrival/departure record also counts in most states. A naturalization certificate proves citizenship if you were born outside the U.S.

If you were born in the U.S., a certified birth certificate is usually the easiest route. Order it from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born — that office's website will tell you how. If you were born outside the U.S. and are a citizen, a passport or naturalization certificate works. If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card. If you are on a visa or have work authorization, bring the document itself.

What to do if you cannot find a required document

Contact your state DMV before your appointment and explain which document you are missing. Many DMVs have alternative documents they will accept, or they can tell you how to get a replacement. For a birth certificate, contact the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. For a Social Security card, go to ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. For a green card, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Some documents take weeks to arrive. A certified birth certificate usually takes one to three weeks. A replacement Social Security card takes one to two weeks. A replacement green card takes several months. If you need Real ID quickly, start ordering replacements now rather than waiting until your appointment. Some DMVs offer expedited processing if you pay an extra fee, but that does not speed up the time it takes to get missing documents.

Bringing originals versus certified copies

Bring the original document whenever possible. The DMV will examine it and return it to you. A certified copy — a copy stamped and signed by the issuing authority — counts as an original for most purposes and is acceptable at the DMV. A photocopy you made yourself is not acceptable.

If you need a certified copy, contact the agency that issued the original. For a birth certificate, that is the vital records office. For a marriage certificate, that is the county clerk. For a divorce decree, that is the court that issued it. For a bank statement, that is your bank. Certified copies cost money — usually between five and twenty dollars — and take one to three weeks to arrive by mail. Some agencies offer in-person pickup or rush processing for an extra fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired passport as proof of identity?

Yes, most states accept an expired passport for Real ID. An expired passport still proves your identity and citizenship. Bring it along with your other documents. Check your state's DMV website to confirm, since a few states have different rules.

Do I need to bring originals of everything or can I bring photocopies?

Bring originals or certified copies. Photocopies you made yourself are not acceptable. The DMV will examine the original and return it to you. If you do not have the original, contact the issuing agency and request a certified copy.

What if I was born outside the U.S. but I am a citizen?

Bring a U.S. passport, passport card, or naturalization certificate to prove citizenship. If you do not have one of those, you can request a naturalization certificate from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services or order a certified copy of your birth certificate and bring it with a passport from your country of origin.

Can I use a utility bill that is not in my name?

No. The utility bill must be in your name to prove your current address. If you recently moved and the bill is still in a previous resident's name, ask your utility company for a letter confirming your address, or bring a lease or mortgage statement instead.

How long does it take to get a certified birth certificate?

Usually one to three weeks by mail, depending on the state or county. Some vital records offices offer rush processing or in-person pickup for an extra fee. Contact the vital records office in the state or county where you were born to ask about timing and cost.